Creating, Sharing and Living the Patchwork Dream

July 03, 2014

Back from the dark side.....

Thank you for staying tuned even though it has taken me a few weeks to get back to the blog to share the adventures of Eagle Farm Markets with you.....

As I mentioned in my previous post we had a fantastic view of the Story Bridge and while I didn't take this image I still wanted to share it with how beautiful the city is at night

When visiting a new market you have to do a lap to see what is on offer and decide where you wish to return - but once we discovered Divine Doughnuts the decision was made - these donughnuts were as big as dinner plates, freshly made and lightly sprinkled with cinnamon sugar - as delicious as they young man who served us - oops did I say that out loud!!!!

Of course we couldn't eat one each so the stall holder happily cut one in half, bagged them up and asked us not to blame him if one half was bigger then the other. They definately were not like any doughnut we had ever tried - more bready if we had to try and describe them - but absolutely delicious. Majella and I both agreed that we would have them again when we return - one day!

So after that we needed coffee and who better to ask then a local - so we were pointed in the direction of the "Columbians". We must have had a blank look on our faces as it was repeated - up and around - see the "Columbians". So off we headed and voila -

The best cup of coffe we had all weekend - we did have a small issue with communication - I think this was the first time we had ever been asked how we like our coffee - the poor man serving us repeated the question and obviously realising that we had no idea what was being asked of us helped us out - you not only choose the size (naturally of course) but you also choose the strength - normal, medium, strong and the lovely man even sugared it for you....I know relaying this story makes us sound a little slow on the uptake (it was 7am in the morning) but we don't normally hear that question when ordering coffee.....highly recommended via Divine Doughnuts

There was a huge flower market filled with the most stunning roses, tulips, carnations - such an old fashioned little flower, bouquets and more - the prices were unbelievable

My house would be filled with fresh flowers every week - if only I lived closer......

As well as flowers, food from around the world, gifts, handmade jewellery and lotions and potions there was rows and rows of fresh produce, meats and the most amazing breads and cakes and pies......so much and of course what did I take a photo of - the vegies - I know unbelievable isn't it - but here goes

We had a fabulous time at the markets and really look forward to returning one day soon - the organic coconut yoghurt and the pre-made herb gardens are definately coming home with me to Toowoomba.

Kyleigh has stickability by the buckloads and brought in her very cute little Japanese purses that we (yes that includes me and no mine are not finished - really are you surprised!) brought in Melbourne at the ACQ. They look gorgeous and I was tempted to quickly slide them to the side and claim them as my own....

Bev's New York Beauty class was filled with sewing machines buzzing away creating gorgeous blocks for the class particpants quilts

Tanya had a definate theme of black, red and white for her quilt - she had always wanted to make a New York Beauty and brought her mum with her to class - what a lovely way to spend the day - creating and sharing with the people you love most.

Bev had plenty of good advice for the ladies on fabric choices, stitch length, pressing and block construction and layout.

Barb was thrilled with way her block came together

There is nothing better than to see smilling ladies who are empowered with new techniques and tricks, but more importantly the confidence to tackle quilts that had previously challenged them. As a shop owner/occasional teacher I aim for every class to not only be filled with the sharing of knowledge and techniques and tricks to help us all along the way but also excitement, laughter and friendship.

This class was filled with all of those things and Bev's patient, clear and gentle guidance definately steered the ladies to a very succesful day of quilting. Congratulations to all who attended on your beautiful blocks and we look forward to sharing your finished quilt tops in the future.

Judy's dilly bag continues to be a favourite with everyone and for those of you who are looking at wanting to make another for a gift or just for yourselves we have been busy cutting and packing new kits

Our selection of French General fabrics is delicious and would make a gorgeous dilly bag and if you haven't seen Judy's dilly bag and are wondering what it looks like here is a modern version that we shared in an earlier post (May 28)

The creative and happy Schoolhouse Quilters arrived in Toowoomba for their annual retreat and their work is outstanding.....I look forward to sharing it with you in my next post

Enjoy the cool of Winter and the little luxury of inside time it provides us to stitch.......lisa